GATESHEAD Thunder have confirmed the capture of two new players for the 2009 season.

The National League One newcomers have signed Australian half-back Luke Branighan and Fijian prop Puna Rasaubale as they finalise their plans for next years campaign.

Branighan is a former half-back partner of Wigan star Trent Barrett, and was once nominated for the Dally M Rookie of the Year award, Australias equivalent of Super Leagues Young Player of the Year.

The 26-year-old made 16 first-grade appearances for Cronulla before spending two years with Lezignan in the French Elite Division, and spent last season representing Sydney City Roosters at reserve level.

"Luke is a top-quality signing and shows exactly what Gateshead are wanting to achieve in 2009," said Thunder head coach Dave Woods. "He has been courted by several NRL clubs in the past, but has been really unfortunate after a couple of knee constructions at pivotal times when he was younger.

"Thankfully, he has had no major injury problems in the past few years, and to still be getting opportunities at NRL clubs now shows hes a real class act. He sees the potential of our club and the opportunity we can give him, and Im sure hell take it with both hands."

Rasaubale narrowly missed out on a place in the Fiji squad for this months Rugby League World Cup, and the 21-year-old is determined to press his international claims by impressing at Gateshead International Stadium.

"I had several offers from UK clubs, but have decided on Gateshead," he said. "They are a club on the rise and I am pleased to be playing National League One next season. Hopefully, I can play NRL or Super League the year after.

"After missing selection into the Fiji squad for the World Cup, my goal now is to get back to the UK and prepare for a big season."

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